Under the supervision of the Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Associate Professor Dr. Sarmed H. Kathem Alkhateeb, the Psychological Counseling and Educational Guidance Unit at the College of Pharmacy/University of Baghdad, organized an educational and informative symposium titled “Mental Health of University Students” as part of the activities for Awareness and Guidance Week. The lecture was presented by Dr. Zainab Abdul-Razzaq Al-Jouri, a psychiatrist at the Al-Imamain Al-Kadhimain Medical City and a member of the Iraqi Medical Specializations Council. The lecture discussed the importance of mental health, the strategies for dealing with crises, and managing psychological pressures in daily life and social relationships. The lecture covered signs of deteriorating mental health and how to improve it through effective time management, building healthy habits, strengthening social relationships, self-care, self-esteem, and seeking help when needed. At the end of the interactive lecture, questions and inquiries from the audience were answered, with attendees praising the skillful presentation of information. They also appreciated learning proper breathing techniques and relaxation exercises to manage stress and anxiety. On the same day, the Dean of the College of Pharmacy opened an art exhibition titled “Your Mental Health is a Priority: Supporting Students in Their University Journey” organized by the Psychological Counseling and Educational Guidance Unit in collaboration with the Voluntary Work Support Committee at the College of Pharmacy on Wednesday, November 27, 2024. The exhibition included various informative posters, brochures, and handmade artworks by students under the supervision of their faculty. The goal of these two activities was to promote mental health awareness, encourage positive behaviors to enhance mental well-being, and raise awareness of societal risks related to negative phenomena such as smoking, drug use, and others.
